Thieves rob Habitat for Humanity of costly tools
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RENTON, Wash. -- Habitat for Humanity sees the best in people. This time, the group has seen the worst.
Renton police are hunting for the Grinches who took thousands of dollars worth of tools from the group.
"Circular saws, nail guns, siding nailers, framing nailers, jig saws," said Tom Granger of East King County Habitat for Humanity.
Thieves cut through Habitat's construction gate lock and drilled their way into the tool shed.
"Our crew felt very violated and quite angry," said construction supervisor Mike Hammerquist.
The group was working on building 41 homes. Now, six of the homes may not be finished on time.
"We have people trying to work on community service. We have homeowners trying to move into a better home, and here's somebody taking away our ability to meet those needs," said Hammerquist.
Without nail guns and professional tools, Americorps volunteers must take on the project one nail at a time.
"It took 100 times longer than it normally would take," said a volunteer named Alex.
Some of the stolen tools are sentimental; they had been donated in memory of contractor Sonny Miller, a longtime supporter of Habitat for Humanity.
Restocking the tool shelves is going to be almost impossible. Costs would top $4,000 -- money Habitat doesn't have.
And going without means projects will be delayed, and those waiting to move in will be disappointed.
Habitat says insurance coverage will not help; the group hopes the generosity of the community will help the group get through the season.
Learn how to help on Habitat for Humanity's website.
Renton police are hunting for the Grinches who took thousands of dollars worth of tools from the group.
"Circular saws, nail guns, siding nailers, framing nailers, jig saws," said Tom Granger of East King County Habitat for Humanity.
Thieves cut through Habitat's construction gate lock and drilled their way into the tool shed.
"Our crew felt very violated and quite angry," said construction supervisor Mike Hammerquist.
The group was working on building 41 homes. Now, six of the homes may not be finished on time.
"We have people trying to work on community service. We have homeowners trying to move into a better home, and here's somebody taking away our ability to meet those needs," said Hammerquist.
Without nail guns and professional tools, Americorps volunteers must take on the project one nail at a time.
"It took 100 times longer than it normally would take," said a volunteer named Alex.
Some of the stolen tools are sentimental; they had been donated in memory of contractor Sonny Miller, a longtime supporter of Habitat for Humanity.
Restocking the tool shelves is going to be almost impossible. Costs would top $4,000 -- money Habitat doesn't have.
And going without means projects will be delayed, and those waiting to move in will be disappointed.
Habitat says insurance coverage will not help; the group hopes the generosity of the community will help the group get through the season.
Learn how to help on Habitat for Humanity's website.
